U.S. Approves $100 Million Sale of Laser-Guided Weapons to Saudi Arabia

The U.S. State Department has authorized a potential sale of Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS) to Saudi Arabia, estimated at $100 million. This marks a significant step in military cooperation between the two countries and addresses increasing tensions in the region, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in Yemen.

The Pentagon revealed that the sale includes 2,000 APKWS laser-guided rockets, designed to accurately strike both airborne and surface targets. Each rocket is priced at approximately $22,000, making them a cost-effective solution for countering low-cost drones employed by Yemen's Houthis, formally known as Ansarallah. The U.S. has intensified its military operations against Houthi targets, resulting in significant civilian casualties, with reports indicating more than 30 deaths in recent strikes.

The APKWS systems are known for their precision and low collateral damage, bridging the gap between unguided rockets and larger, more expensive munitions. This sale is expected to enhance Saudi Arabia's military capabilities, aligning with American and Israeli foreign policy objectives in the Gulf region. BAE Systems will serve as the principal contractor, ensuring support and logistics for the integration of these advanced systems. However, the notification does not imply that a contract has been finalized or that negotiations are complete.